CMNS 101 Fundamentals of Communication

Before researching and writing a speech, you must determine the speaking occasion and learn about the audience. Will you deliver an informative, persuasive, or commemorative speech, such as a toast at a graduation? After determining the occasion, it’s time to gather information about your audience members. Let’s learn more about the importance of creating an audience analysis. 

Before researching and writing a speech, you must determine the speaking occasion and learn about the audience. Will you deliver an informative, persuasive, or commemorative speech, such as a toast at a graduation? After determining the occasion, it’s time to gather information about your audience members. Let’s learn more about the importance of creating an audience analysis.

Why Should You Complete an Audience Analysis

• Build Relevance and Engagement: Gather research content that is relevant and tailored to the audience's interests to increase the audience’s interest and engagement during your speech.
• Build Connection and Clarity: Connect with your audience personally and choose appropriate language and examples to help them comprehend your speech topic.
• Build Your Persuasion Skills: Strengthen the effectiveness of your persuasive efforts by understanding and aligning with the audience's values, beliefs, and concerns.

How to Conduct an Audience Analysis

• Observation: Observe the audience's behavior and reactions during other speeches or interactions to understand their preferences and engagement levels.
• Interviews: Conduct interviews with key audience members or event organizers to gain deeper insight into their values, beliefs, and concerns.
• Surveys: Distribute a survey before you research and write the speech to gather detailed information about the audience.